1. Describe how NASA remotely controls equipment in space.
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NASA-Threads

2. Introduction to Microcontrollers and the Parallax Boe-Bot
Hello World
Introduction to Microcontrollers and the Parallax Boe-Bot
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NASA-Threads
Update: 7/20/2010

3. What is a Microcontroller?
The BASIC Stamp 2
It’s a programmable device that is designed into your digital wristwatch, cell phone, calculator, clock radio, etc. In these devices, the microcontroller has been programmed to sense when you press a button, make electronic beeping noises, and control the device’s digital display. They are also built into factory machinery, cars, submarines, and spaceships because they can be programmed to read sensors, make decisions, and orchestrate devices that control moving parts.
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NASA-Threads
Source: Robotics with the Boe-Bot, Andy Lindsay

4. The BASIC Stamp
The BASIC stamp is actually a PIC (Peripheral Interface Controller) microcontroller (Microchip PIC16C57) packaged in an integrated circuit.
BASIC Stamps are manufactured by Parallax Inc. and come in different versions (with different speed, memory, and control options).
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NASA-Threads

5. Parallax BS2 Editor / Compiler
PBASIC Version: 2.5
Stamp Mode: BS2
File Structure
Download/Run
Button
PBASIC
Program
Syntax Check
Programs in current file
BASIC Commands
Comments
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NASA-Threads

6. What is PBASIC ?
The programming language we will use to program the BASIC Stamp 2 microcontroller.
Parallax - Company that invented and makes BASIC Stamp microcontrollers.
Beginners – Originally designed for beginners to use to learn how to program computers
All-purpose - Powerful and useful for solving many different kinds of problems
Symbolic - Using symbols (terms that resemble English word/phrases)
Instruction - To instruct a computer how to solve problems
Code - In terms that you and the computer understand
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7. Writing a Program in PBASIC
Select the BS2 icon.
Select the PBASIC 2.5 icon.
Type in DEBUG line shown.
Save the file on your USB as “Hello World”.
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NASA-Threads

8. Jumper Check
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9. Preparing your Circuit Board
Handle the board by its edges.
Plug transformer into wall.
Plug transformer output into circuit board.
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10. Running a Program (connected to PC and without servos)
Write/modify program in BASIC Stamp Editor.
Run Syntax Check and make corrections as needed.
With toggle switch in “0” (off) position, connect Serial / USB cable to BOE-Bot.
Move toggle switch to “1” (Stamp on) position.
Download program. (program starts running immediately)
Press RESET button on BOE-Bot to re-run the program.
When complete, move toggle switch back to “0”.
RESET button
BS2 on
Motors on
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11. Run “Hello World” Connect your BS2 circuit board to your PC.
Turn on the BS2.
Run the Syntax Check
Download/Run the program.
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12. “Hello World” Output
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13. Vocabulary
Microcontroller – a device that can be programmed to read sensors, make decisions, and orchestrate devices that control moving parts.
BASIC - Beginners, All-purpose, Symbolic, Instruction, Code
Editor/Compiler - Computer program designed to enter (edit) computer program code and compile it into machine code that a microprocessor / microcontroller can execute.
Syntax – the specific code that an editor can understand and compile.
Handout: Unit 1 Vocabulary
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14. Assignment
Run “Hello World” at home (to make sure your editor is working properly)
Handout: List of Common PBASIC Commands
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